Forensic Science
School of Physical and Geographical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences
Last Updated 19 September 2013

Principal Course Timetable Blocks 4


The School of Chemistry and Physics at Keele runs a modular course in Forensic Science in association with colleagues from the School of Life Sciences and the School of Earth Sciences and Geography. It also offers modules within the Complementary Studies Programme. Forensic science is the application of scientific methods and techniques to problems in the context of crime and the legal system. It is very much a multidisciplinary science subject calling on principles and techniques from both the physical and biological sciences. Details of the following modules including course outlines can be found on the Forensic Science web site (www.keele.ac.uk/depts/forensic/) or on the Learning and Teaching pages of the University web site.

NB: Because of variations in staff availability and research interests, from time to time certain courses may not run in particular semesters. Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students please confirm availability with the Department when applying.

Forensic Science Dual Honours - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10038 Chemical Science Principles C C 7.5 15
This is a core module of the principal forensic science course at level 1. It provides a theoretical and practical basis in analytical methods, the identification of organic and inorganic substances and an understanding of their chemical properties. This module covers the principal concepts of chemistry aiming to extend students&© understanding with the emphasis on forensic science topics, and to enhance their practical skills in experimental chemistry and analytical methods. In addition, it introduces the students to the mathematical and statistical concepts necessary for the analysis and interpretation of forensic evidence.
CHE-10039 Forensic Science Principles C M 7.5 15
This module provides an introduction to forensic science as a professional discipline in the context of the crime scene, the laboratory and the court. It also highlights the role of the forensic scientist as an expert witness and the reporting of forensic evidence. It includes discussion of the science of many evidence types such as fibres, glass, DNA, fingerprints and drugs as well as developing a wide range of practical, laboratory skills in forensic examination of evidence. The module also aims to develop a range of study skils and transferable skills as a foundation for degree level work.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10037 Forensic Analysis C M 7.5 15
This is a core module of the principal forensic science course at level 1. It provides an overview of quantitative and qualitative analysis and introduces a number of investigation techniques. This module covers the basic chemical and physical methods of analysis of trace evidence. It focuses on some of the key characterisation and separation techniques, such as microscopy, microspectroscopy and chromatography, and provides hands-on experience in a variety of analytical methods through practical laboratory work. It introduces the important topic of the use of statistics in the interpretation and evaluation of forensic evidence.
CHE-10042 Forensic Identification C M 7.5 15
This module introduces students to the concept of identifying individuals not by what they look like, but by the analysis of the unique complement of biological molecules produced by their bodies, or by the analysis of their skeletal remains. The main focus will be on DNA, the most important molecule for forensic purposes - students will learn what it is made of, how it is replicated, how it is passed on from one generation to the next, the types of sequence found in the human genome and which of these sequences are best to use for DNA fingerprinting and the techniques used to analyse DNA. Techniques commonly used to analyse other molecules ( e.g proteins, lipids etc.) will also be covered. Students will get the chance to practise some of these techniques in the laboratory sessions. There will be an anthropology workshop on the analysis of skeletal remains. This module will lay important foundations for a level 2 module on forensic analysis of DNA.

Forensic Science Dual Honours - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20011 Spectroscopy and Advanced Analysis C M 7.5 15
This module covers a wide range of modern spectroscopic and related techniques used for the chemical characterisation of forensic materials, methods of structural and elemental analysis, chromatography and mass spectrometry. It also provides experience of these techniques in the practical context.
CHE-20015 Forensic Science - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20016 Forensic Science - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20021 Forensic Genetics C M 7.5 15
This is a core module of the principal Forensic Science course at level 2. This module will provide the essential background knowledge of the molecular tools used for identifying individuals by DNA fingerprinting and to build on this to describe some of the ways in which these tools are used in Forensic Science. The principle concepts in DNA profiling will be explored and the students understanding of human identification will be extended. It will emphasise the importance of DNA profiling and its application in forensic investigations and of the presentation of DNA evidence in court.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20010 Criminalistic Methods C M 7.5 15
This module covers the scientific principles and their application to the imaging and characterization of a range of materials of forensic interest. It includes the development of forensic laboratory and reporting skills.
~ CHE-20012 Drugs of Abuse C M 7.5 15
The role of Forensic Science in the investigation of drugs and drug-related crime will be examined. This module will develop students understanding of the systematic abuse of drugs and alcohol and introduce the relevant legal issues such as the Misuse of Drugs Act. Aspects of pharmacology (drug metabolism) and toxicology will be introduced through examination of various classes of drugs in detail, and the determination of drugs and alcohols in biological specimens will be demonstrated through theory and practical sessions using appropriate methodologies and analytical techniques.
CHE-20017 Forensic Science - Study Abroad III EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20018 Forensic Science - Study Abroad IV EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.

Forensic Science Dual Honours - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30010 Forensic Toxicology C M 7.5 15
This Level III module will draw upon material delivered at Levels I and II and will develop students&© understanding of pharmacology, biochemistry, pathology and toxicology and their application in Forensic investigations. The outline content will be as follows: a review of the various analytical techniques available to the toxicologist; methodologies for detecting foreign substances in tissues and body fluids and interpretation of the data acquired; the relevant legal aspects governing the presentation of toxicological evidence in written reports and in court. Extensive use of case studies will develop the principles of toxicology and enable students to appreciate and apply toxicology both in the laboratory and in the field.
CHE-30033 Evaluation of evidence, explosives and arson C M 7.5 15
This module aims to familiarise students with key topics in forensic explosives and arson and enable them to appreciate the logical interpretation and evaluation of forensic evidence through a variety of lectures, laboratories and problem solving exercises.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30011 Forensic Science Team Research Project - ISP C C 7.5 15
The aims of this module are: (i) to provide students with the opportunity to apply and develop their knowledge and understanding of forensic science within a research environment; (ii) to implement recognised and develop novel forensic analytical techniques (65 hours lab work); (iii) to evolve their handling of data, it's analysis and interpretation, and where appropriate expand their knowledge and use of statistical techniques; (iv) to use and develop interpersonal and communications skills working as part of a team; (v) to develop presentation and report-writing skills.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-30034 Forensic Geoscience O M 7.5 15
This module aims to teach students key theoretical and practical issues of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course and where topics are at the forefront of and of relevance to research in Forensic Science. These areas include: forensic geoscience, forensic geophysics, forensic entomology, forensic palynology and palaeontology, forensic archaeology and DNA analysis. Four topics will be covered each year; these will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, forensic practitioners with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.
CHE-30034 Forensic Geoscience EP M 7.5 15
This module aims to teach students key theoretical and practical issues of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course and where topics are at the forefront of and of relevance to research in Forensic Science. These areas include: forensic geoscience, forensic geophysics, forensic entomology, forensic palynology and palaeontology, forensic archaeology and DNA analysis. Four topics will be covered each year; these will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, forensic practitioners with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.
CHE-30035 Advanced Topics in Forensic Analysis O M 7.5 15
This final year module provides advanced understanding of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course at Level 1 and 2. Topic areas include: ballistics and forensic investigation of firearms incidents, advanced analysis of paint, fibres and glass evidence, and archaeology and art fraud. An emphasis will be made on the examination of physical evidence in court issues. Four topics will be covered each year, which will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.
CHE-30035 Advanced Topics in Forensic Analysis EP M 7.5 15
This final year module provides advanced understanding of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course at Level 1 and 2. Topic areas include: ballistics and forensic investigation of firearms incidents, advanced analysis of paint, fibres and glass evidence, and archaeology and art fraud. An emphasis will be made on the examination of physical evidence in court issues. Four topics will be covered each year, which will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.

Forensic Science Major - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10038 Chemical Science Principles C C 7.5 15
This is a core module of the principal forensic science course at level 1. It provides a theoretical and practical basis in analytical methods, the identification of organic and inorganic substances and an understanding of their chemical properties. This module covers the principal concepts of chemistry aiming to extend students&© understanding with the emphasis on forensic science topics, and to enhance their practical skills in experimental chemistry and analytical methods. In addition, it introduces the students to the mathematical and statistical concepts necessary for the analysis and interpretation of forensic evidence.
CHE-10039 Forensic Science Principles C M 7.5 15
This module provides an introduction to forensic science as a professional discipline in the context of the crime scene, the laboratory and the court. It also highlights the role of the forensic scientist as an expert witness and the reporting of forensic evidence. It includes discussion of the science of many evidence types such as fibres, glass, DNA, fingerprints and drugs as well as developing a wide range of practical, laboratory skills in forensic examination of evidence. The module also aims to develop a range of study skils and transferable skills as a foundation for degree level work.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10037 Forensic Analysis C M 7.5 15
This is a core module of the principal forensic science course at level 1. It provides an overview of quantitative and qualitative analysis and introduces a number of investigation techniques. This module covers the basic chemical and physical methods of analysis of trace evidence. It focuses on some of the key characterisation and separation techniques, such as microscopy, microspectroscopy and chromatography, and provides hands-on experience in a variety of analytical methods through practical laboratory work. It introduces the important topic of the use of statistics in the interpretation and evaluation of forensic evidence.
CHE-10042 Forensic Identification C M 7.5 15
This module introduces students to the concept of identifying individuals not by what they look like, but by the analysis of the unique complement of biological molecules produced by their bodies, or by the analysis of their skeletal remains. The main focus will be on DNA, the most important molecule for forensic purposes - students will learn what it is made of, how it is replicated, how it is passed on from one generation to the next, the types of sequence found in the human genome and which of these sequences are best to use for DNA fingerprinting and the techniques used to analyse DNA. Techniques commonly used to analyse other molecules ( e.g proteins, lipids etc.) will also be covered. Students will get the chance to practise some of these techniques in the laboratory sessions. There will be an anthropology workshop on the analysis of skeletal remains. This module will lay important foundations for a level 2 module on forensic analysis of DNA.

Forensic Science Major - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20011 Spectroscopy and Advanced Analysis C M 7.5 15
This module covers a wide range of modern spectroscopic and related techniques used for the chemical characterisation of forensic materials, methods of structural and elemental analysis, chromatography and mass spectrometry. It also provides experience of these techniques in the practical context.
CHE-20015 Forensic Science - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20016 Forensic Science - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20021 Forensic Genetics C M 7.5 15
This is a core module of the principal Forensic Science course at level 2. This module will provide the essential background knowledge of the molecular tools used for identifying individuals by DNA fingerprinting and to build on this to describe some of the ways in which these tools are used in Forensic Science. The principle concepts in DNA profiling will be explored and the students understanding of human identification will be extended. It will emphasise the importance of DNA profiling and its application in forensic investigations and of the presentation of DNA evidence in court.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20010 Criminalistic Methods C M 7.5 15
This module covers the scientific principles and their application to the imaging and characterization of a range of materials of forensic interest. It includes the development of forensic laboratory and reporting skills.
~ CHE-20012 Drugs of Abuse C M 7.5 15
The role of Forensic Science in the investigation of drugs and drug-related crime will be examined. This module will develop students understanding of the systematic abuse of drugs and alcohol and introduce the relevant legal issues such as the Misuse of Drugs Act. Aspects of pharmacology (drug metabolism) and toxicology will be introduced through examination of various classes of drugs in detail, and the determination of drugs and alcohols in biological specimens will be demonstrated through theory and practical sessions using appropriate methodologies and analytical techniques.
CHE-20017 Forensic Science - Study Abroad III EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CHE-20018 Forensic Science - Study Abroad IV EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.

Forensic Science Major - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30010 Forensic Toxicology C M 7.5 15
This Level III module will draw upon material delivered at Levels I and II and will develop students&© understanding of pharmacology, biochemistry, pathology and toxicology and their application in Forensic investigations. The outline content will be as follows: a review of the various analytical techniques available to the toxicologist; methodologies for detecting foreign substances in tissues and body fluids and interpretation of the data acquired; the relevant legal aspects governing the presentation of toxicological evidence in written reports and in court. Extensive use of case studies will develop the principles of toxicology and enable students to appreciate and apply toxicology both in the laboratory and in the field.
CHE-30033 Evaluation of evidence, explosives and arson C M 7.5 15
This module aims to familiarise students with key topics in forensic explosives and arson and enable them to appreciate the logical interpretation and evaluation of forensic evidence through a variety of lectures, laboratories and problem solving exercises.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30011 Forensic Science Team Research Project - ISP C C 7.5 15
The aims of this module are: (i) to provide students with the opportunity to apply and develop their knowledge and understanding of forensic science within a research environment; (ii) to implement recognised and develop novel forensic analytical techniques (65 hours lab work); (iii) to evolve their handling of data, it's analysis and interpretation, and where appropriate expand their knowledge and use of statistical techniques; (iv) to use and develop interpersonal and communications skills working as part of a team; (v) to develop presentation and report-writing skills.
+ # CHE-30028 Interpretation, Evaluation & Presentation of Evidence - ISP C C 15 30
+ # CHE-30029 Forensic Dissertation C C 7.5 15
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-30034 Forensic Geoscience O M 7.5 15
This module aims to teach students key theoretical and practical issues of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course and where topics are at the forefront of and of relevance to research in Forensic Science. These areas include: forensic geoscience, forensic geophysics, forensic entomology, forensic palynology and palaeontology, forensic archaeology and DNA analysis. Four topics will be covered each year; these will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, forensic practitioners with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.
CHE-30034 Forensic Geoscience EP M 7.5 15
This module aims to teach students key theoretical and practical issues of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course and where topics are at the forefront of and of relevance to research in Forensic Science. These areas include: forensic geoscience, forensic geophysics, forensic entomology, forensic palynology and palaeontology, forensic archaeology and DNA analysis. Four topics will be covered each year; these will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, forensic practitioners with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.
CHE-30035 Advanced Topics in Forensic Analysis O M 7.5 15
This final year module provides advanced understanding of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course at Level 1 and 2. Topic areas include: ballistics and forensic investigation of firearms incidents, advanced analysis of paint, fibres and glass evidence, and archaeology and art fraud. An emphasis will be made on the examination of physical evidence in court issues. Four topics will be covered each year, which will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.
CHE-30035 Advanced Topics in Forensic Analysis EP M 7.5 15
This final year module provides advanced understanding of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course at Level 1 and 2. Topic areas include: ballistics and forensic investigation of firearms incidents, advanced analysis of paint, fibres and glass evidence, and archaeology and art fraud. An emphasis will be made on the examination of physical evidence in court issues. Four topics will be covered each year, which will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.

Forensic Science Minor - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10038 Chemical Science Principles C C 7.5 15
This is a core module of the principal forensic science course at level 1. It provides a theoretical and practical basis in analytical methods, the identification of organic and inorganic substances and an understanding of their chemical properties. This module covers the principal concepts of chemistry aiming to extend students&© understanding with the emphasis on forensic science topics, and to enhance their practical skills in experimental chemistry and analytical methods. In addition, it introduces the students to the mathematical and statistical concepts necessary for the analysis and interpretation of forensic evidence.
CHE-10039 Forensic Science Principles C M 7.5 15
This module provides an introduction to forensic science as a professional discipline in the context of the crime scene, the laboratory and the court. It also highlights the role of the forensic scientist as an expert witness and the reporting of forensic evidence. It includes discussion of the science of many evidence types such as fibres, glass, DNA, fingerprints and drugs as well as developing a wide range of practical, laboratory skills in forensic examination of evidence. The module also aims to develop a range of study skils and transferable skills as a foundation for degree level work.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-10037 Forensic Analysis C M 7.5 15
This is a core module of the principal forensic science course at level 1. It provides an overview of quantitative and qualitative analysis and introduces a number of investigation techniques. This module covers the basic chemical and physical methods of analysis of trace evidence. It focuses on some of the key characterisation and separation techniques, such as microscopy, microspectroscopy and chromatography, and provides hands-on experience in a variety of analytical methods through practical laboratory work. It introduces the important topic of the use of statistics in the interpretation and evaluation of forensic evidence.
CHE-10042 Forensic Identification C M 7.5 15
This module introduces students to the concept of identifying individuals not by what they look like, but by the analysis of the unique complement of biological molecules produced by their bodies, or by the analysis of their skeletal remains. The main focus will be on DNA, the most important molecule for forensic purposes - students will learn what it is made of, how it is replicated, how it is passed on from one generation to the next, the types of sequence found in the human genome and which of these sequences are best to use for DNA fingerprinting and the techniques used to analyse DNA. Techniques commonly used to analyse other molecules ( e.g proteins, lipids etc.) will also be covered. Students will get the chance to practise some of these techniques in the laboratory sessions. There will be an anthropology workshop on the analysis of skeletal remains. This module will lay important foundations for a level 2 module on forensic analysis of DNA.

Forensic Science Minor - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20011 Spectroscopy and Advanced Analysis C M 7.5 15
This module covers a wide range of modern spectroscopic and related techniques used for the chemical characterisation of forensic materials, methods of structural and elemental analysis, chromatography and mass spectrometry. It also provides experience of these techniques in the practical context.
CHE-20021 Forensic Genetics C M 7.5 15
This is a core module of the principal Forensic Science course at level 2. This module will provide the essential background knowledge of the molecular tools used for identifying individuals by DNA fingerprinting and to build on this to describe some of the ways in which these tools are used in Forensic Science. The principle concepts in DNA profiling will be explored and the students understanding of human identification will be extended. It will emphasise the importance of DNA profiling and its application in forensic investigations and of the presentation of DNA evidence in court.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CHE-20010 Criminalistic Methods C M 7.5 15
This module covers the scientific principles and their application to the imaging and characterization of a range of materials of forensic interest. It includes the development of forensic laboratory and reporting skills.
~ CHE-20012 Drugs of Abuse C M 7.5 15
The role of Forensic Science in the investigation of drugs and drug-related crime will be examined. This module will develop students understanding of the systematic abuse of drugs and alcohol and introduce the relevant legal issues such as the Misuse of Drugs Act. Aspects of pharmacology (drug metabolism) and toxicology will be introduced through examination of various classes of drugs in detail, and the determination of drugs and alcohols in biological specimens will be demonstrated through theory and practical sessions using appropriate methodologies and analytical techniques.

Forensic Science Minor - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# CHE-30010 Forensic Toxicology EP M 7.5 15
This Level III module will draw upon material delivered at Levels I and II and will develop students&© understanding of pharmacology, biochemistry, pathology and toxicology and their application in Forensic investigations. The outline content will be as follows: a review of the various analytical techniques available to the toxicologist; methodologies for detecting foreign substances in tissues and body fluids and interpretation of the data acquired; the relevant legal aspects governing the presentation of toxicological evidence in written reports and in court. Extensive use of case studies will develop the principles of toxicology and enable students to appreciate and apply toxicology both in the laboratory and in the field.
CHE-30033 Evaluation of evidence, explosives and arson EP M 7.5 15
This module aims to familiarise students with key topics in forensic explosives and arson and enable them to appreciate the logical interpretation and evaluation of forensic evidence through a variety of lectures, laboratories and problem solving exercises.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CHE-30034 Forensic Geoscience EP M 7.5 15
This module aims to teach students key theoretical and practical issues of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course and where topics are at the forefront of and of relevance to research in Forensic Science. These areas include: forensic geoscience, forensic geophysics, forensic entomology, forensic palynology and palaeontology, forensic archaeology and DNA analysis. Four topics will be covered each year; these will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, forensic practitioners with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.
CHE-30035 Advanced Topics in Forensic Analysis EP M 7.5 15
This final year module provides advanced understanding of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course at Level 1 and 2. Topic areas include: ballistics and forensic investigation of firearms incidents, advanced analysis of paint, fibres and glass evidence, and archaeology and art fraud. An emphasis will be made on the examination of physical evidence in court issues. Four topics will be covered each year, which will be taught either by staff within the university or by external specialists, with specialist knowledge of the individual subject area.
C Compulsory Core Module
O Optional Core Module
EP Programme Elective Module
EA Approved Elective Module
EF Free-Standing Elective Module
M Mixed Assessment e.g. a mixture of essay(s) and examination, with the latter's weighting below 90%.
E Examination, providing 90% or more of the mark.
C Continuous Assessment e.g. essay(s) or practical work (as appropriate).
+ Available to qualified non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students but there may be a restriction on the number of places available
~ Specific pre-requisite(s) needed by non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students wishing to take these modules
# Not normally available to Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students (except by prior negotiation with Departmental Tutor)
Note: Modules not marked with a # are available to suitably qualified Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students.